Core elements of AMS program

Antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) are essential for optimizing the use of antibiotics and improving patient outcomes while combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR). To guide healthcare facilities in implementing effective ASPs, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has developed a set of core elements that serve as a foundation for these programs. These elements encompass leadership commitment, accountability, pharmacy expertise, actionable policies, and interventions, as well as mechanisms for tracking, reporting, and education. By adhering to these core components, healthcare organizations can ensure responsible antibiotic use, enhance clinical practices, and contribute to the global fight against AMR.

• Leadership commitment: Show commitment to and responsibility for optimizing patient safety and antimicrobial prescription; ensure that all required resources are in place.
• Accountability: Physician-Pharmacist co-leadership is popular and has shown effectiveness.
• Pharmacy expertise: Pharmacist expertise should be considered in the program.
• Action for policy and practice: Priority interventions; Implement at least one policy or practice to enhance antibiotic prescription, evaluate its effectiveness, and make adjustments as applicable. Interventions for common clinical conditions like CAP, UTI, and skin and soft tissue infections are of supreme importance.
• Tracking: Antibiotic prescribing patterns in local clinical settings should regularly be monitored.
• Reporting: Report information on antimicrobial use and resistance regularly to hospital personnel and leadership and providers who can use the data for action.
• Education: Clinicians and patients should have essential information on antimicrobial usage, especially the adverse effects. The engagement of nurses in the process should be underscored.

Tutorial video: Key elements of a successful AMS program (2 minutes and 41 seconds)